How Bad Breath Can Be a Warning Sign of Pet Health Problems

Does your pet’s breath make you turn away? While many pet owners assume bad breath is normal, it can actually be a warning sign of underlying health problems. In fact, persistent foul breath—also known as halitosis—is one of the earliest indicators of dental disease in pets, infections, and even serious internal conditions.

At Spirit of 76th Veterinary Clinic in West Allis, WI, we believe that bad breath should never be ignored. If your pet’s breath has taken a turn for the worse, it’s time to dig deeper and find out what’s causing the problem. This Pet Dental Health Month, we will explore why pets develop bad breath, what it could mean, and how to fix it.

What Causes Bad Breath in Pets?

While an occasional whiff of "doggy breath" or "fishy cat breath" isn’t unusual, persistent bad breath is usually caused by one of the following health issues:

• Dental Disease: The #1 cause of chronic bad breath in pets.
• Oral Infections or Abscesses: Bacteria buildup can lead to painful infections.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: Internal organ dysfunction can affect breath odor.
• Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can make a pet’s breath smell sweet or fruity.
• Digestive Issues: Poor digestion or stomach problems can contribute to foul breath.

Seventy to eighty percent of cats and dogs develop some form of dental disease by age three, making bad breath one of the most common early warning signs.

What Does Your Pet’s Breath Smell Like? It Could Be a Clue!

Your pet’s breath odor can reveal a lot about their health. A rotten or fishy smell can indicate that your cat or dog is experiencing dental disease. Periodontal disease is often accompanied by red gums, yellow teeth, or excessive drooling. Sweeter-smelling breath in pets may indicate diabetes. Diabetes requires immediate veterinary attention—untreated diabetes can lead to serious complications. A foul odor can accompany kidney or liver disease in pets. These diseases will need to be evaluated by a veterinarian along with diagnostics. Digestive issues can also carry their own unique bad smell. Adjusting your pet’s diet for proper digestion can help improve breath odor.

Any type of persistent bad odor coming from your pet’s mouth should be evaluated by a veterinarian for an official, experienced diagnosis, as the type of smell may vary from pet to pet.

How to Treat and Prevent Bad Breath in Pets

Schedule Regular Dental Exams & Cleanings

Professional pet dental cleanings with a veterinarian remove deep tartar and plaque buildup. Most pets need a cleaning at least once a year. Annual dental checkups during your pet’s yearly exam can catch early signs of gum disease and infections. Dental X-rays may also be needed to detect hidden dental issues.

Brush Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly

Use pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste!) when brushing your pet’s teeth. Brush at least 3-4 times per week to prevent plaque buildup. You will likely need to start slowly and use positive reinforcement to make it a stress-free experience. If your pet won’t tolerate brushing, talk to your veterinarian about water additives.

Provide Dental Chews & Healthy Treats

Look for VOHC-approved (Veterinary Oral Health Council) dental chews. Avoid overly hard treats (like antlers) that can crack your pet’s teeth and lead to further dental issues.

Address Underlying Health Conditions

If your pet has kidney disease, diabetes, or liver problems, managing their overall health can help improve their breath. Cats and dogs should receive routine bloodwork every year to detect hidden diseases before symptoms appear. If bad breath persists despite good dental hygiene, schedule a visit to the vet to find out whether your pet is suffering from a health issue.

Don’t Ignore Your Pet’s Bad Breath!

Bad breath isn’t just unpleasant—it’s a warning sign of potential health issues. Whether it’s dental disease, diabetes, or kidney dysfunction, identifying the cause early can prevent pain and serious complications. Spirit of 76th Veterinary Clinic is here to be your trusted veterinarian in West Allis for getting to the bottom of your pet’s stinky breath.

 

If your pet has persistent bad breath, schedule an appointment today.